Winter Minestrone Soup

Winter Minestrone Soup is a hearty, comforting meal brimming with nourishing vegetables like kale and butternut squash—perfect for those chilly days when you need a warm hug in a bowl. This Italian-inspired classic brings together the best of winter's bounty in a rich, herb-infused broth.

Save to Pinterest

This soup is as beautiful as it is delicious, with vibrant green kale, bright orange squash, and tender pasta creating a colorful and satisfying dish. It is a wholesome way to feed your family during the colder months.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1 can (15 oz/425 g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional garnish)

Dries dishes, utensils, and cookware neatly after cooking, keeping your countertop organized and clutter free.

Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add butternut squash and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Pour in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil.

Step 5

Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until the squash is just tender.

Step 6

Add beans, pasta, and kale. Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, until pasta is cooked and kale is wilted.

Step 7

Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8

Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Sautéing the base vegetables thoroughly ensures a deep flavor profile. When adding the kale, make sure the stems are completely removed to maintain a tender texture throughout the soup.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta entirely and add an extra can of beans. You can also substitute spinach for kale if you prefer a milder leaf.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and parsley. A thick slice of crusty bread is the perfect accompaniment for dipping into the savory broth.

Save to Pinterest

This Winter Minestrone Soup is a versatile staple that stores well and tastes even better the next day. Enjoy the warmth and nutrition of this classic Italian dish all winter long.

Keep spatulas, spoons, and cooking tools organized and within reach while preparing meals.

Check price on Amazon

Recipe Questions

→ What vegetables work best in winter minestrone?

Butternut squash adds sweetness and substance, while kale provides hearty greens. Zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion create the classic mirepoix base. Feel free to add spinach or Swiss chard as alternatives.

→ Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely. Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties like rice-based penne or quinoa fusilli. Alternatively, add extra cannellini beans or diced potatoes for bulk without the gluten.

→ How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, this minestrone keeps well for 4-5 days. The pasta may absorb liquid as it sits, so add a splash of vegetable broth when reheating to restore consistency.

→ Can I freeze winter minestrone?

Yes, though the pasta texture may soften slightly. For best results, cook the soup without pasta, cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add freshly cooked pasta.

→ What protein additions work well?

Beyond the cannellini beans, you can add diced chicken during simmering or brown Italian sausage for a meatier version. For plant-based options, try lentils or extra white beans.

→ How do I enhance the flavor depth?

Simmer a Parmesan rind in the broth for umami richness, then remove before serving. A splash of balsamic vinegar or pesto swirl just before serving adds bright complexity.